Intestinal microbiota during preconception/pregnancy and impact in future health

The gut microbiota affects many systems and functions in their host, and an imbalance in microbiota can lead to dysfunctions, including those affecting the female reproductive system and the hormones related to it. The maternal microbiome models a child’s life-long health because of the byproducts produced by the microbiome and its impacts in epigenetic mechanisms. The use of short-course antibiotics during the perinatal period appears to increase the risk of children to certain illnesses due to the implications it has for the microbiome. The first 1000 days contain windows of opportunity in which a disturbed microbiota may be amenable to interventions to ensure long-term health benefits and avoid disease. Prof. Francesco De Seta highlights the maternal diet pre- to post-pregnancy as a way to mitigate dysbiosis and ensure positive outcomes. He also sheds light on gaps in research, such as the paternal influence on a child’s microbiota, and shares what is known about the effects of advanced maternal age.